David Bruton is a special teams demon who gives the Broncos depth on defense. / Jack Dempsey, AP

by Lindsay H. Jones and Mike Garafolo, USA TODAY Sports

by Lindsay H. Jones and Mike Garafolo, USA TODAY Sports

Linebacker D.J. Williams, one of the two longest-tenured players on the Denver Broncos along with Champ Bailey, is a free agent for the first time in his nine-year career after he was released on Monday.

The Broncos save the $6 million in base salary Williams was to earn in 2013. He'll still count $2.1M against the salary cap in prorated bonus money.

Williams, a former first-round pick, was a fulltime starter for the Broncos from 2004-2011 but was suspended for nine games in 2012 â?? six weeks for violating the banned substance policy, and three weeks because of a second DWAI conviction.

He returned to the Broncos in a limited role in mid-November.

Williams received a phone call from Mike Sullivan, the Broncos' director of football administration, telling him he had been released. Williams was not surprised, and has been preparing himself to join another team in 2013.

"It was a combination of things â?? the trouble in the past definitely had something to do with it, my salary was going to be pretty high next year, and the defense played pretty well without me this year," Williams told USA TODAY Sports. "I don't think it was because of my play. I feel, actually I know, that when I'm out there I can produce."

Williams said he was looking forward to his first time on the free agent market, and said he believes he can fit in either a 4-3 or 3-4 defensive schemes. Williams played in both during his nine years with the Broncos. He played primarily the weakside linebacker position in the 4-3 defense, but said he believes he can also play middle linebacker.

But wherever Williams lands, he's looking to start.

"I'm in shape. I haven't lost a step. I can play," Williams said. "I don't feel like 20 or 30 plays a game max was enough for me. I'm just ready to get out on the field and be out there 100% of the time."

Williams' exit might be only the first high-profile departure.

Defensive end Elvis Dumervil's agent, Marty Magid, spoke with Broncos officials on Monday but no progress has been made as the two sides try to negotiate a reduced contract for Dumervil, who's $12 million becomes guaranteed on March 16.

If the two sides cannot reach an agreement, Dumervil could wind up a free agent, and the Broncos would be in the market for another pass rusher in free agency.

The Broncos also released third-string quarterback Caleb Hanie. Hanie, who was inactive for every game in 2012. He was slated for a $1.25 million base salary and a possible $350,000 roster bonus in 2013.

But the team did gave a new three-year contract for safety David Bruton on Monday. Bruton, a fourth-round pick in 2009, has consistently been the team's top special teams player and keeping him was a priority. The Broncos are also trying to re-sign defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson before he hits the market.

Cowboys cut Dan Connor

The Dallas Cowboys were $6 million over the salary cap at the end of last week and need to be under it by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday when the new league year (and free agency) begins.

The team has begun to get there by cutting inside linebacker Dan Connor, according to a person informed of the transaction. The person spoke to USA TODAY Sports on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't yet announced the move.

Connor was a needed asset in 2012, but Dallas will have linebackers Sean Lee and Bruce Carter coming back from injured reserve.

Ravens put second-round tender on Pitta

The Baltimore Ravens tendered restricted free agent TE Dennis Pitta at the second-round level, according to a person informed of the designation. The person spoke to USA TODAY Sports on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't announced the tender, which comes with a salary of just over $2 million if Pitta signs the deal.

Pitta is coming off of a breakout season in which he caught 61 passes for 669 yards and seven touchdowns during the regular season and had an excellent run in the playoffs with three touchdowns, including one in Super Bowl XLVII.

The low price of compensation might entice a team to take a shot at signing Pitta to an offer sheet. The question, though, is whether it will be worth it for Pitta to leave Joe Flacco, with whom he's developed a close relationship off the field and solid chemistry on it.

"We are very pleased to extend the contract of a young, talented player like Ian," 49ers GM Trent Baalke said in a statement. "He will have the opportunity to continue to grow in our defense, and we look forward to his future development."

Williams' deal is worth $3.2 million with $2 million guaranteed, a person informed of the contract told USA TODAY Sports. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the 49ers did not release terms.

Eagles keep special teamers

The Philadelphia Eagles re-signed long snapper Jon Dorenbos and special teams ace Colt Anderson on Monday. Anderson also started four games at safety in 2012.